St Martin's - the parish church of Ashton-upon-Mersey

There is thought to have been a church on the site since the 9th century; the first dated record of a church being built is 1304. In 1704 a storm and fire destroyed the building then on the site. A new church was built in 1714. Over time a baptistry was added and, in 1887, a tower, porch and lych gate to commemorate Queen Victoria's Jubilee. These were donated by William Cunliffe-Brooks, lawyer, banker and local Member of Parliament.
The church contains many interesting features including box pew ends (converted to wall panelling in 1884), the 1803 colours (flag) of the Ashton-upon-Mersey and Sale Volunteers. Unusually, the church has threefonts! The timbers for the double hammer beam roof are thought to have come from an earlier church, the main oak door of which is still in use today. There are several stained glass windows, some in memory of local people. The Jardine organ dates from 1857, replacing an earlier instrument.
The tower is topped by a fine weathervane. It was reported that "Buffalo Bill" visited the church and shot the weather vane over his shoulder ! When it was removed for renovation a bullet hole was found. Make up your own mind!

Timings & Tours

Saturday 13 September:

10.00 - 16.00

Sunday 14 September:

14.00- 16.00

Location & directions

Church Lane, Ashton-upon-Mersey, Sale, Greater Manchester, M33 5QQ

Directions:

Church is at the far end of church lane. Some parking available between the church and rhe church hall. Parking also available opposite the Golf Club (left hand side of the road)

Contact on day:

Graham Gladden

Telephone number:

+447802462682

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

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